The National Rifle Association in America has released an iPhone game rated 4+ designed to let users test "true to life firearms".

The app - 'NRA: Practice Range '- has been released in the wake of a fractious debate on gun control in the US, reignited by a recent shooting which left 26 dead in a Connecticut school.

The NRA is a powerful 'gun rights' lobbying group which claims more than four million American members.

Its new app is described as the NRA's "mobile nerve center", and includes ways for members to get "one-touch access to the NRA network of news, laws, facts, knowledge, safety tips, educational materials and online resources".

Among the safety tips is the helpful advice to "always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction".

But as noticed by AppSide, it also includes a "practice range" mini-game, which lets users test out guns on three realistic shooting ranges.

The app is available to children, and is rated "4+" on Apple's iOS App Store.

It also allows users to pay an extra $0.99 to unlock an MK11 sniper rifle.

The NRA insists the game:

"Instills safe and responsible ownership through fun challenges and realistic simulations. It strikes the right balance of gaming and safety education, allowing you to enjoy the most authentic experience possible."